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Definition:
This doctrine reappears throughout the history of religion and religious philosophy.
Its basic thesis is that essential religious doctrines cannot be verified rationally
and thus can only be believed based on faith (Latin fides). But more than that,
it insists that simply accepting such doctrines on faith is a valid and reasonable
action to take.
Its more extreme form was adopted by Kierkegaard, who argued that religious faith requires not simply accepting beliefs which cannot be rationally verified, but which are obviously irrational and even absurd or contradictory. Less extreme forms have been adopted by some Christian theologians as part of their position that salvation comes through faith alone.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
What is the Philosophy of Religion?
Sometimes confused with theology, the Philosophy of Religion is the philosophical study of religious beliefs, religious doctrines, religious arguments and religious history. The line between theology and the philosophy of religion isn't always sharp, but the primary difference is that theology tends to be apologetical in nature, committed to the defense of particular religious positions, whereas Philosophy of Religion is committed to the investigation of religion itself, rather than the truth of any particular religion.
